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3 ways to enter

North Korea visas

North Korea tourist visa

Tourist visas are issued as tourist cards. Chinese ordinary passport holders have limited visa-free options for visits to Tongrim County or Sinuiju.

Ways to get a North Korea tourist visa

  1. Tourist card

    Other permit

    Tourists who need a visa receive it as a tourist card.

  2. Visa-free group visit to Tongrim County

    No visa needed

    Chinese citizens with ordinary passports visiting only Tongrim County in a tour group qualify.

    Stay
    Up to 2 days.

    Passports that qualify (1)

  3. Visa-free day trip to Sinuiju

    No visa needed

    Chinese citizens with ordinary passports visiting Sinuiju for a day trip qualify.

    Stay
    One day trip.

    Passports that qualify (1)

Who needs it

Tourists generally need a tourist visa unless a visa exemption applies.

Who doesn't

Chinese ordinary passport holders can visit only Tongrim County in a tour group for up to 2 days, or visit Sinuiju for a day trip, without a visa.

Good to know

  • The tourist visa is issued as a tourist card.
  • Visa stamps are not placed inside the passport.

Questions

Do I need a tourist visa for North Korea?

Tourists generally need a tourist visa unless a visa exemption applies. Chinese ordinary passport holders can visit only Tongrim County in a tour group for up to 2 days, or visit Sinuiju for a day trip, without a visa.

What are the ways to get a tourist visa for North Korea?

There are 3 options: Tourist card (a special permit); Visa-free group visit to Tongrim County (no visa at all); Visa-free day trip to Sinuiju (no visa at all).

Who can go to North Korea without a tourist visa?

Chinese citizens with ordinary passports visiting only Tongrim County in a tour group qualify. Chinese citizens with ordinary passports visiting Sinuiju for a day trip qualify.

Does my passport change whether I need a tourist visa for North Korea?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the North Korea visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a tourist visa for North Korea be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest North Korea tourist visa rules?

On North Korea's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my tourist visa once I am in North Korea?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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